Will My Divorce Become Public Record in New Jersey?

Going through a divorce can be an incredibly challenging time for those involved, both emotionally and legally. However, many are shocked to discover that the information that arises during their divorce becomes public record upon the finalization of their separation. This can be troubling, as divorce often brings out the worst in people, meaning untrue accusations against you could become public record. As such, understanding what information is available and your options to protect your privacy is critical. If you’re worried about this information, you’ll want to keep reading to discover how a Morris County divorce lawyer can assist in keeping your details private.

What Information From My Divorce Will Become Public Record?

When you and your spouse divorce, it’s important to understand that under the Open Public Records Act, all civil matters handled in New Jersey courts become public record. This means that your divorce judgment, the settlement, and even some sensitive information like financial details or allegations of abuse can all be accessed by the general public.

It’s necessary to understand that though it isn’t simple to obtain these documents, it’s not impossible. Generally, this information is used by the government and private companies for research and data purposes, but with enough persistence, coworkers, friends, and family could access this information if they wanted to.

How Can I Protect My Privacy During a Divorce?

If you are worried about information becoming available to the public, it’s important to understand your legal options during these matters. Generally, the best way to protect your information during a divorce is to consider mediation. This form of alternative dispute resolution helps you avoid court by working with your spouse and a neutral third-party entity to determine the outcome of your divorce. This option is ideal for several reasons, as it can help you save time and money. Additionally, this information is confidential as it allows you to keep the details of your divorce private, and the only information that will become public record is the agreement you and your spouse sign at the end of mediation.

However, not all couples and relationships can mediate their divorce. This is especially true for marriages where abuse or a considerable power imbalance is present. As such, you may be able to petition the court to have your divorce records sealed. However, it’s important to understand that the courts don’t often do this, and generally only seal or redact certain confidential information instead of the entire record of your divorce.

If you have concerns about your privacy during divorce, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney from Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn who can guide you through these matters. Our team understands the complexities of divorce, and we can help you ensure the confidentiality of your information. Connect with us today to learn how we can assist you.